Chapter 9: Leaders as Ambassadors of Team-Based Change Efforts--Building Diplomatic Ties in the Organization

Overview

Nick was an area manager of a large component parts factory producing fuel tanks and bumpers for the auto industry. He understood the need for change. Although manufacturers want components delivered "just in time" to reduce inventory costs, they never want parts delivered late. Nick's plant had jeopardized production runs at other facilities before. He understood his plant manager's vehement command to never let that happen again. Nick also believed in the people who worked in his section of the facility. His people knew how to make the components and overcome obstacles to get the job done.

Believing that a team concept would empower people to make the business successful, Nick was willing to find ways to get them to attend meetings to be part of the development of solutions and not merely recipients of new orders. He co-chaired committees that got people involved, gained the support and trust of key union leaders to ensure a joint process, and dedicated part of his budget to provide team training to people in his three-shift operation. Nick would sometimes show up in the middle of the night to make sure even the night shift knew he was serious about the use of teams as a strategy and a structure for getting the work done.

Nick was also willing to stand up to his managers when they expressed doubt. He helped supervisors understand the new role for them in the team-based culture he was championing. Nick was an ambassador for teams (some called him St. Nick), but he made it clear that his support was based on good business sense. He helped transform the plant's culture ”he made a difference.

Are you ready to be an ambassador? You can be the person who educates key people throughout your organization about the assets and issues associated with your teams. You are also in a position to educate your teams about the issues your organization is facing . As a leader, you are key in getting others to understand the need for change.